Villages in Spain

The Raft of Corks offers some reflections and photos on an unplanned selection Spanish villages.  I hope this will give a flavour of the beautiful diversity of lifestyles to be found in the regions of Spain away from the tourist routes.

Simplicity and plenty of time.

Most young people have moved from the villages to the city where work is easier to find.  However in the past few years many have returned to live with their parents, especially as the economic crisis has taken hold and the abundant construction work has disappeared.

The village population is usually elderly with few families and young children.  Many of the villagers continue working for as long as they are able, sometimes into their nineties and many villages boast of neighbours who are over 100 years old.

Life is traditional and simple based on agriculture and basic farming. The pace of life is unrushed with plenty of time for conversation and patience.  People are usually delighted to tell you about their lives and their families, show you their gardens and ask you many personal questions because,  above all,  the Spanish want to know everything about a visitor.  They are open and friendly people who accept everyone.   Even if you don’t speak Spanish they will talk to you at length and try to make sense of what you are trying to say.

Click on the names in the archive list on the left.  There will be a map to show you where the village is.